Listing Reference: req3116
Listing Status: Open
Company: Transnet Port Terminals (TPT)
Industry: Maritime / Logistics / Freight Operations
Job Category: General Worker / Operations Labour
Location: Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Contract Type: Non-Permanent
Remuneration: Hourly Rate (Grade HRLYL1)
EE Position: Yes
Closing Date: Not specified
Introduction
Transnet Port Terminals (TPT), a key division of South Africa’s state-owned freight transport and logistics company, is seeking applications from suitably qualified individuals within the King Cetshwayo District for a General Worker role at the Richards Bay Multipurpose Terminal (MPT). This opportunity is ideal for individuals with prior terminal operations experience, offering the chance to work in a high-performance, safety-driven environment where operational efficiency and cleanliness are prioritized.
This role contributes to the overall cargo handling and cleanliness of port facilities, directly impacting cargo movement, equipment functionality, and compliance with operational procedures.
Job Description
The General Worker role focuses on labour provision to support cargo operations and ensure clean, safe environments across various terminal operations. This hands-on position includes cleaning operational areas, assisting with cargo handling, and supporting equipment operations under direct supervision.
The primary objective of this role is to assist in the efficient and safe handling of goods and contribute to the effective daily running of port terminal operations.
Ideal Candidate
This opportunity is open to candidates who:
- Reside within the King Cetshwayo District (as preference will be given to locals)
- Have completed Grade 12 or NQF Level 4
- Possess a minimum of 1 year of terminal experience
- Are physically fit and capable of performing general labour tasks
- Are committed to maintaining safety and operational standards
- Are able to follow instructions and work as part of a team in a high-pressure environment
Role Responsibility
The successful candidate will be responsible for the following operational and support tasks:
- Cleaning of operational equipment, such as ship-to-shore cranes’ windows and cabins
- Container inspection for damage, defects, or handling concerns
- Reefer monitoring, ensuring refrigerated containers maintain correct temperatures
- Opening and closing rail wagon twist-locks
- Loading, off-loading, and slacking cargo in compliance with TPT procedures
- Hooking/unhooking and tarping/untarping cargo when required
- Placing and removing dunnage to secure cargo
- Cleaning operational areas, including rail trucks, plant areas, workshops, sheds, offices, and ablution facilities
- Filling out relevant documentation, such as accident reports or safety logs
- Identifying proper cargo handling equipment/gear as per operational requirements
Skills and Attributes
To succeed in this role, candidates should demonstrate the following core competencies and behavioral attributes:
- Knowledge of terminal layout and stack positions
- Understanding of safety protocols and PPE usage
- Ability to maintain clean and hazard-free work environments
- Attention to detail when handling cargo and monitoring containers
- Reliability and punctuality, with a strong work ethic
- Ability to follow instructions precisely and work effectively in teams
- Physical stamina to handle long hours of manual labour in all weather conditions
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Position Summary
This General Worker position at TPT Richards Bay is a critical frontline role in ensuring smooth and compliant terminal operations. With duties ranging from cargo assistance to operational cleaning, the role supports the backbone of South Africa’s logistics and freight transport sector.
Successful candidates will benefit from:
- On-the-job experience in one of the largest port terminals in South Africa
- The opportunity to work with experienced terminal operators
- Building a foundation for future roles in logistics, port operations, or heavy industry
- Exposure to Transnet’s broader infrastructure and employment network
This role provides an opportunity to be part of a national logistics powerhouse, contribute to South Africa’s export and import economy, and gain valuable operational experience in a structured, safety-first environment.